2 Mar 2018
Anonymous employee
The Visual Brand Response
8yThis hurtful review is neither based entirely in fact (we don't typically ever pay our employees late, nor are we funded on debt), or in the reality of running an independent agency - it is also not from a recent employee - just one that apparently has an axe to grind, and did not have the courage to speak their mind directly.
Because I believe it is something we all must do, we do occasionally do pro-bono projects - for non-profits. Employees are paid for this work, so the only one "giving" is the company - and there is no write-off for this, nor should that ever be the motivation. We charge a fair rate for what we charge for - we are neither the cheapest or most expensive - and obviously we aim to make sure we have enough to cover the costs of doing business.
"Creative freedom" is something we all hope for, but unless you are a successful fine artist, not often completely available in the commercial world. We do are best to try to provide fresh, well-executed ideas always, and do our best to guide clients towards a solution that takes advantage of what they hired us for. My name is connected to everything we deliver here, so I do care about it, and will provide direction - based on both my understanding of the need and tenure as a creative professional. I always invite (and enjoy) challenge and questions, and will often be persuaded by a thoughtful argument. "Malicious compliance", or taking direction you don't understand or agree with is never a healthy way to live, or grow professionally. I believe most of my work relationships are built on trust and mutual respect and understanding.
As this disgruntled person notes, then contradicts themselves, we do offer very fair pay, have a good track record of providing raises, and do provide other perks and signs of gratitude, whether they are appreciated or not. What usually triggers reward is an employee that not only does great work, but shows they actually care about what they do.
While I would not ever claim to be a perfect person, I do believe I have been successful because I care, I tell the truth, and also always try to be better.